What Changed the Minds of the Vaccine Hesitant?

Over the past few weeks, unvaccinated people have driven the pandemic surge, leading to more hospitalizations and cases nationwide. But even in the face of soaring cases, nearly 40% of the population is still not fully vaccinated.

According to Verywell Health's latest vaccine sentiment survey, more than a quarter—27%—of our vaccinated respondents said they were previously against getting the COVID-19 vaccine. What did it take to change their minds?

Among the converted, the top reason—chosen by 40% of respondents—for finally embracing the jab was the risk of COVID seemingly outweighing the risk of getting vaccinated.

Other converts say they just needed time to warm up to the idea. It’s now been nearly eight months since vaccines first rolled out. Over time, side effects have proven rare and effectiveness has remained strong.

What Changes Minds About Vaccination?

Among our respondents that said they previously decided against vaccination, there was a generational divide. Millennials made up the highest proportion: 31% had once decided not to get vaccinated. Meanwhile, that number was smaller for Gen X and Gen Z.

Most survey respondents who did change their minds about the vaccines did so through a risk calculation: Getting COVID seemed riskier than getting vaccinated.

This reasoning is especially relevant now that the Delta variant is causing a surge in cases and hospitalizations nationwide. For the first time since February 2021, the U.S. is averaging 100,000 cases a day.

More than half of Americans who responded to our survey (53%) say they’re concerned about the new variant—12 points higher than last month. General concern about the pandemic is rising at the same pace. Simultaneously, there has been a drop of 6 points in the percentage of our respondents who feel safe from COVID-19.

The optimism many felt as states lifted COVID-19 restrictions at the start of the summer is also waning. Now, 60% of our respondents say they feel at least somewhat concerned that states are easing COVID-19 restrictions too early. This is 5 points higher than when we asked in May.

These renewed fears are driving vaccination rates higher. Florida, which set a new daily record for COVID hospitalizations, is seeing an uptick in vaccinations. In all 50 states, vaccination rates are rising—some even by 100%.

The Pressure’s on for Vaccine Mandates and Verification

This jump in vaccination also comes as employers increasingly implement vaccine mandates. Just this past week, cities like New York City and Chicago now require certain workers to get vaccinated. The federal government will be requiring employees to get the shot too, as well as military members.

Some states are implementing vaccine verification strategies to get ahead of Delta-induced surges. For example, New York City announced it would require proof of vaccinations for indoor activities, including dining, fitness, entertainment, and performances. 

It looks like Americans are open to this idea. Overall, 57% of Americans in our survey say they think people should have to prove they’ve gotten vaccinated, a 4 point increase from early June.

A Word From Verywell

People who are unvaccinated are not a monolith. There are many reasons someone may be hesitant about getting their COVID-19 vaccine shot. When talking to a friend or family member who is considering getting vaccinated, be prepared to open a dialogue, stay empathetic, and genuinely try to understand their worries. Focus on offering any help they may need—like offering a ride or watching their kids during their appointment. 

If you need help approaching these conversations, check out Verywell’s Healthy Conversation Coach, which can walk you through the right way to approach someone who's hesitant about getting vaccinated.

The information in this article is current as of the date listed, which means newer information may be available when you read this. For the most recent updates on COVID-19, visit our coronavirus news page